Key Takeaways
- MWC26 Kigali will take place from June 16–18, 2026, focusing on Africa’s digital agenda.
- New industry summits include topics on AI fraud, AgriTech, Health, and GSMA Technology.
- First-ever GLOMOs Africa awards will honor significant contributions to digital transformation in Africa.
Event Highlights and Structure
The GSMA has announced exciting updates for MWC26 Kigali, one of Africa’s key connectivity events. Scheduled from June 16 to 18, 2026, at the Kigali Convention Centre, the event aims to unify pan-African and global leaders, regulators, and investors in discussions addressing the continent’s digital future.
Registration for the event is now open. The 2026 edition will feature a mix of new and returning industry summits that emphasize current digital issues in Africa. Among the new offerings is the Scams Summit, focusing on AI-driven fraud and the industry’s collective response. The AgriTech Summit, in partnership with AGRA, will examine how emerging technologies can benefit Africa’s agricultural sector. The Health Summit aims to explore the role of digital innovation in improving healthcare access across the continent. Additionally, a GSMA Technology Summit will focus on key issues for African network operators, including 5G implementation and security.
Returning summits include the Education Summit and the 5G Summit, alongside the GSMA Ministerial Programme, which successfully hosted delegations from 33 countries last year.
Another highlight is the introduction of the first GLOMOs Africa awards, which aim to recognize organizations significantly impacting Africa’s digital landscape. Categories for the awards include the Digital Innovation for Africa’s Real Economy Award and the Closing the Mobile Internet Usage Gap Innovation Award. Submissions are open until April 30, and participation in the awards is free.
MWC26 Kigali will follow four primary themes that reflect the challenges and opportunities shaping Africa’s digital landscape:
- ConnectAI: Examining the convergence of AI and advanced connectivity to potentially double Africa’s GDP growth by 2035.
- Fintech & Commerce: An extended program focusing on how these sectors contribute to economic resilience.
- Digital Africa: Investigating how mobile-first solutions and improved broadband access are transforming healthcare and education.
- Intelligent Infrastructure: Analyzing how 5G and AI networks generate new revenue channels in sectors like mining and logistics.
Notable exhibitors and sponsors for the event include AethexAI, Airtel, Ericsson, Ethio Telecom, MTN, PXS, and Terrapay. Organizations interested in showcasing their brands are encouraged to explore sponsorship opportunities by visiting the official MWC Kigali website.
To foster media engagement, industry analysts and participants can apply for complimentary media passes. Registration details and additional information can be found on the event’s website.
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